The Russell Westbrook signs reported 2-year deal with the Nuggets.

The Denver Nuggets added additional depth to their backcourt in a move that had long been expected. Russell Westbrook signed to a deal with the Denver Nuggets rumored to be for two years, $6.8 million and they formally inked their pact on July 26.

Westbrook was dealt to the Utah Jazz on July 18 but was waived two days later. His move to Denver had been reported since the initial agreement that permitted the LA Clippers to execute a sign-and-trade deal with the Jazz to acquire guard Kris Dunn.

Westbrook, a nine-time All-Star and the 2017 MVP for Oklahoma City, was traded for the fifth time in his career. He has now been traded to Utah by both organizations in his native Los Angeles in the previous 18 months.

The 35-year-old Westbrook has reportedly opted into the final year of his deal with the Clippers, who were to pay him slightly over $4 million.

The point guard posted a career-low 11.1 points per game while largely coming off the bench last season for the Clippers, who were booted by Dallas in the first round of the playoffs while Kawhi Leonard was injured. Denver needs guard depth after parting with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Reggie Jackson earlier this month.

Westbrook’s run in L.A.: The trade from the Clippers to Utah halted Westbrook’s two bids to win a championship in his hometown of L.A.

He first had a tremendously disappointing 1 1/2 seasons with the Lakers, who acquired him in August 2021 to be the third superstar with LeBron James and Anthony Davis on a squad with title expectations.

Instead, Westbrook averaged just 17.4 points per game for the Lakers while struggling to play with James and Davis with any of his customary success.

The Lakers transferred Westbrook to Utah in February 2023, and he joined with the Clippers after the Jazz bought out his contract.

Westbrook increased his shooting % with the Clippers, but also never returned to the heights of his high-scoring, ball-dominating heyday on another club with veteran stars. He had a decreased role for much of the second half of last season while largely coming off the bench.